Ulysse Nardin, Audemars Piguet: Vintage Bold Designs
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Ulysse Nardin, Audemars Piguet: Vintage Bold Designs

By quattro · Sep 24, 2025 · 22 replies
quattro
WPS member · Horological Meandering forum
22 replies1218 views20 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In a captivating exploration of horological artistry, quattro delves into the bold and unconventional designs of Ulysse Nardin and Audemars Piguet. His post highlights how these brands pushed boundaries with unique case geometries, drawing particular attention to the Ulysse Nardin 'La bonne perspective' and its striking resemblance to Audemars Piguet's historic Ref. 5159, which inspired the modern [Re]master02. quattro's analysis invites readers to appreciate the enduring appeal of these distinct timepieces.

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Roni Madhvani aka Roni M recently posted on his IG account (@roni_m_29) some photos of this intriguing Ulysse Nardin with a yellow gold case shaped like a square inclined parallelepiped. Thank you, Roni, for letting me use your photos.



credit: @roni_m_29


According to the advertisement below, this model is called “La bonne perspective” (The good perspective).



credit: Ulysse Nardin (image found on The Watchismo Times)


An example of this watch with a gold bracelet, as featured in the above advertisement, has been posted here in 2006 by newbie.



credit: newbie


The design of this model immediately made me think of Audemars Piguet’s ref. 5159 (or 5159BA, because of the yellow gold case), which is the source of inspiration of the [Re]master02 (ref. 15240SG.OO.A347CR.01). 


Below: 5159 (left) & [Re]master02 (right):



credit: Monochrome


The design of ref. 5159 is more complex than the one of the Ulysse Nardin, since it cannot be reduced to a simple geometric shape. With its multiple angles and angled crystal, it has been characterised as “an ode to brutalism”.



credit: @tellewellyn


However, both of these two watches share a use of three dimensional geometry and a very original and paradoxical mix of angular design and refined aesthetic in a yellow gold case.





I personally like the depth effect of “La bonne perspective”.









credit: @roni_m_29


And I also like the bold mix of square, rectangular and pyramidal shapes of ref. 5159.











credit: Monochrome, @tellewellyn, Hodinkee & Christie’s (Fine Watches & Wristwatches, New-York, October 29th, 1996)


Do these watches also speak to you?

Best, Emmanuel



BONUS 1: THE ULYSSE NARDIN CHRONOMÈTRE UNICORNE

In the advertisement of "La bonne perspective" shown above, the watch on the left is called "Chronomètre Unicorne". Here it is:










credit: TiccTacc® 


BONUS 2: A SHORT VIDEO OF REF. 5159

MingWatch HK



About the Audemars Piguet AP Limited Edition Ref. ref5159

The Audemars Piguet reference 5159 is a limited edition model, distinguished by its unique design elements that set it apart from standard production pieces within the Audemars Piguet catalog. This reference is recognized for its specific aesthetic choices and production numbers, which contribute to its appeal among collectors seeking less common variations from the brand. Its introduction marked a particular period in Audemars Piguet's design evolution, reflecting contemporary trends while maintaining the brand's established horological standards.

While specific details regarding the case material and dimensions for this particular reference are not widely publicized, Audemars Piguet typically employs high-grade materials such as various gold alloys or stainless steel for its limited editions. The movement powering the ref. 5159 would be an in-house mechanical caliber, known for its precision and finishing, characteristic of Audemars Piguet's manufacturing. The crystal would invariably be sapphire, ensuring durability and clarity for the dial.

This limited edition reference appeals to collectors who appreciate rarity and distinctive design within the Audemars Piguet lineage. Its limited production numbers make it a notable piece for those assembling a comprehensive collection of the brand's special releases. The ref. 5159 represents a specific chapter in Audemars Piguet's history of creating exclusive timepieces, offering a unique proposition for enthusiasts beyond the brand's core collections.

Specifications

Caliber
AP 2120
Case
Yellow Gold
Diameter
31 mm
Dial
White
Water Resist.
20 m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
AU
AuHavrePro
Sep 24, 2025
I don't really like the UN LBE,

But I definitely like the AP, as well as the 'unicorn' chronometer from UN 🙂. Thank you very much for this newfound, to me, information 🙏🙂‍↕️. Cheers, Filip

QU
quattro
Sep 24, 2025
I understand why you find the AP more appealing than the UN.

More modern, complex and less dressy looking. Best, Emmanuel

QU
quattro
Sep 24, 2025
I made a strange slip of the tongue: the UN is called the good perspective, not hope!!!

AU
AuHavrePro
Sep 24, 2025
That does make more sense 🙂

WA
Watchonthewrist
Sep 24, 2025
Both unusual shaped watches , which i like 👌🏻😉

QU
quattro
Sep 24, 2025
I'm glad you like them too!

I think I would have been very attracted to the [Re]master02 if it was smaller and powered by a manual wind caliber. Best, Emmanuel

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